Howard Simon's Blog

Brandon says lease deal not imminent

by Howard Simon,posted Oct 31 2012 9:12AM

According to a published report, a new lease deal for the Buffalo Bills is imminent but Bills CEO Russ Brandon told WGR that isn't the case.

According to a story in the Niagara Falls Reporter, New York State, Erie County and the Bills have reached agreement on a deal that will be in the 8-10 year range and it could be announced in 7 to 10 days.

During his weekly segment on WGR, Brandon said "there is nothing imminent at all" but they are having very productive talks. Brandon added they are making progress but declined to give any timetable for an agreement.

Brandon also said the Bills considered the idea of a new stadium and explored the concept of a complete retrofit, like Kansas City and Green Bay, before determining renovations to Ralph Wilson Stadium was the best way to proceed.

If the Bills opted for a new facility or a complete retrofit, Brandon said most of the cost would be passed along to the consumer and that ticket prices would double or triple.

You can listen to the entire interview with Brandon including his comments on the long term viability of Ralph Wilson Stadium as well the evaluation of Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey.